Technology Department reviews efficiency amid county budget challenges

Miami-Dade County's Government Efficiency & Transparency Ad Hoc Committee convened on July 10, 2025, to discuss significant strides in operational efficiency and budget management within the county's departments. A key highlight from the meeting was the successful reduction of hold times at the WASDE contact center, which has reportedly been cut in half, leading to increased customer satisfaction.

The committee also addressed budgetary challenges, particularly the goal of achieving a 10% reduction in costs across all departments. While the Information Technology Department (ITD) was not directly tasked with this reduction due to its funding structure, it has engaged in streamlining operations and reducing redundancies by consolidating departments. This effort includes retiring outdated applications and optimizing contracts to lower expenses.

Commissioner Cohen Higgins expressed appreciation for the presentations that clarified departmental operations and budgetary impacts, emphasizing the importance of understanding how departments are working to enhance efficiency. The discussions revealed that the ITD has experienced significant growth over the past several years, attributed to the increasing integration of technology in various county projects. This growth is seen as necessary to support modern infrastructure, including projects in transportation and seaport operations, which increasingly rely on advanced technology systems.

The committee acknowledged the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated substantial investments in technology to facilitate remote work. Additionally, the mayor's initiative to centralize IT functions has aimed to achieve economies of scale, allowing for better pricing and resource allocation.

As Miami-Dade County continues to navigate budgetary constraints and operational demands, the focus remains on enhancing efficiency and transparency, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are utilized effectively. The committee's ongoing discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the county's financial strategies and service delivery in the coming years.